ADDRESS OF THE CHANCELLOR, HIS ROYAL MAJESTY OBA (DR.) DAVID FOLAGBADE OLATERU OLAGBE GI III, CFR. OLOWO OF OWO KINGDOM; TO THE 29TH AND 30TH CONVOCATION OF THE UNIVERSITY OF JOS HELD ON 23RDJUNE, 2018.

PROTOCOLS

Today marks yet another milestone in the history of the University of Jos, as we gather here to witness the 29th and 30th combined Convocation, of the institution. We give all glory to God Almighty for making it possible for us to be part of this occasion. The University of Jos started as a modest Campus of the University of Ibadan in 1971 and metamorphosed into a full-fledged University in 1975. Today, University of Jos has become a preferred academic destination, whose graduates have excelled in their chosen professions within and outside the shores of this country.

The University of Jos, with twelve faculties, post-graduate school, several centres for research and development, is awarding Diplomas, Bachelors, Post-graduate Diplomas, Masters, and Doctoral (PhD) degrees in various disciplines to over 15,000           students on this occasion of its 29th/30th Convocation ceremony. The success of this momentous occasion could not have been possible without the unflinching support of the Federal Government, State Government, Corporate Organizations, Alumni, Staff and Students to whom we remain grateful.

On behalf of the Senate, Congregation, Convocation Committee and the entire University, I sincerely welcome the Visitor to the University, His Excellency, Mohammadu Buhari GCFR, President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to Jos.

I also congratulate you Mr. President for the exemplary leadership you have rendered to this great nation since your election to the presidency; particularly your unrelenting effort in ensuring peace in the State in particular and the nation in general. This has provided the needed conducive atmosphere for academic and social activities on the Campus. I am most thankful to God Almighty for the development. I commend the efforts of the Federal and State Governments, different security agencies, our religious and traditional leaders in achieving this feat. I believe that this commendable effort will be sustained. At this juncture, I wish to encourage all and sundry to support these efforts by imbibing the virtue of peaceful coexistence and pursuit of meaningful development. The entire people of Owo Kingdom extend their warm regards to the good people of this University in particular and Plateau State in general.

I want at this point, to sincerely appreciate and commend the current Management of the University for the Giant Strides recorded within the short time it has been on board. I am sure you would have seen the new structures springing up, especially on the Permanent Site. This is a clear evidence of commitment and diligence as well as testimony of judicious application of both statutory subventions from the Federal Government and the internally generated revenue. In addition, the University is relentlessly working hard to move to its Permanent Site in Naraguta at the shortest possible time. With valuable support from the Federal Government, State Governments, Corporate Organizations and well-spirited individuals, this is achievable.

I sincerely wish to appreciate the University of Jos Alumni Association for mobilizing its members in support of the University’s development efforts. Worthy of note are; its prompt response to the fire incident that affected the University Library on the Naraguta Campus and; the recent foundation laying for an Alumni Centre Complex also on the Naraguta Campus. I also wish to appreciate the various staff unions in the University: ASUU, SSANU, NAAT and NASU for their wonderful support without which the academic achievements we are celebrating today would not have been recorded.

Distinguished guests, I also thank the students for their exemplary conduct. Given the quality of the graduands we have nurtured, we believe they will form the engine that will drive the economy towards the comprehensive development of our great nation. I congratulate all graduands. As you leave the University to join the work force of this great nation and beyond, may your alma mater, the University of Jos, always remain warm in your heart and let the motto of the University, “Discipline and Dedication” continue to guide you in all you do.

Your Excellency, the Visitor, very distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen, I want to thank you for taking the time to be part of this Convocation today and wish you journey mercies as you return to your various destinations.

Thank you and God bless you all.